The 21-year-old pulled up lame during Otago’s six wicket win against Northern Districts in Alexandra two weeks ago.
He strained his hip flexor and has missed the past three games.
The Volts were hopeful the right-armer would be fit for the 10-wicket loss to Wellington in Dunedin on Monday and have not given up hope he will be right for tomorrow’s crucial match against Central Districts at the University of Otago Oval.
A win would mean the Volts clinched a playoff spot and Smith’s presence would enhance their prospects.
However, Volts coach Rob Walter said Smith was ‘‘not likely to play’’.
‘‘Unless he arrives [today] looking ready but I think there is a very, very low chance of that.’’
Smith is Otago’s leading wicket-taker in the format this season with nine wickets at an average of 15.11.
In his absence, qualifying player Travis Muller has played two games.
In the most recent match, batting all-rounder Dean Foxcroft got the nod.
Foxcroft top-scored with a career-best 82 not out and is set to play again tomorrow.
The Volts are likely to name the same 12 but may make a tweak to the starting XI. Matt Bacon could get his first start of the season, ahead of batsman Dale Phillips.
The side is to be named today.
Whoever starts, Smith will be missed.
‘‘We lose a guy who has been delivering really well in two key phases of the game, which is the first six overs and the death.
‘‘We’ve been playing around and looking for ways on how we will fill that gap. But it continues to provide an opportunity for whoever will come in.
‘‘We definitely won’t leave Dean out. He provides some strength in our batting and we know he has something to offer with the ball.’’
Walter was disappointed with the bowling effort during the 10-wicket loss but was keen to stress how well Devon Conway had played.
The opener whacked un undefeated 101 and now averages 316 against Otago in the format.
